The toys are back in town, one last time
When I was in grade 5, a movie came out that completely changed the way we see animation, and put Pixar on the map as one of the best production companies out there.
I was 9 when Toy Story came out, and to be quite honest, I didn’t relate to Andy much. It wasn’t the fact that I would have been 3 years older than him, I just never had one specific favourite toy that could be replaced. None the less, I loved Toy Story, and it was the first movie where I really began to understand the idea of Easter Eggs in a movie, finding all the little hidden bits in the movie hilarious.
Toy Story 2 was the same deal. I loved it, and loved the connections, but it came out at a time when I was overall really not happy with Disney. I had began to develop my vendetta against Disney sequels, and didn’t watch Toy Story 2 much.
When I saw the concept for Toy Story 3, however, I had a sudden attachment to the story and the idea of it all. Andy goes to college. Andy has to grow up. And with growing up, comes letting go, saying goodbye, and trying to find what is worth holding on to, and what is worth the memories alone.
While Toy Story is, essentially, a children’s movie, I feel like this movie is written for the kids who have grown up with Woody and Buzz. There’s a lot in it for children, but at the end of the day, this movie was made for all the Andy’s out there who are in the same boat, knowing that they have to grow up eventually, but quite willing to dig their heels in the dirt when they can. I know that I’m one of them.
I don’t want to give away any plot, because I feel that anyone who is reading this blog should really be making a point of seeing this movie. But I can’t stop wanting to gush about this movie. There is so much adorableness in it, I was happy and squealing through the entire thing. For example, despite the fact I KNEW Totoro would be in this movie, I squeaked when he waddled on screen. The little green alien guys from the first movie absolutely stole the show at the ending, and every time they said “The claaaaaw….” I was in fits of laughter. Mr. Potato Head was fantastic, and I know lots of people came out of the theatre saying that he stole the show as well. I have to agree, but will leave it there because any detail of how amazing he was and I throw away plot. Ken was just ridiculous and was exactly how I would want my old Ken dolls to act if they ever came to life. Aka, alarmingly gay, and yet straight at the end of the day. 
Along with all of the wonderful moments with the timeless favourites, there were a lot of characters who definitely filled out the other end of the spectrum. There were some very creepy toys, some that were downright frightening, and others who made me a little nervous for Buzz and Woody. I won’t name names, you’ll have to find these ones out for yourself.
And at the end of the day, there was all the emotion we’ve come to expect from a Pixar movie. With Toy Story 3 on the heels of Up, you can only imagine just what Pixar and Disney were able to pull out of the audience as they brought one of the best series in Disney history to a close. As the final minutes of the movie began to roll, I had to do everything in my power, including squeeze my eyes shut and concentrate on breathing, just to stop myself from making an audible sob or anything that would give me away. But the tears were rolling down my cheeks. Andy had grown up, and he dealt with it in such a perfect way that it just felt so natural. Yes, it was sad, as growing up can be, but not once did you want anything to be different. It was the most perfect ending for all these characters, human and toy alike.
Would I go and see this movie again? In an instant. Even at the 3D prices, I would go and see this again. If you do go to see this movie, leave a comment, I’d love to hear what you thought.
PS – The short that opens this movie is worth the price of admission as well. It is wonderful and thought provoking and emotional as well.
